<b>Ensilage evaluation of orange peel and corn silages in different storage times</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v29i4.995

Abstract

This study evaluated quality parameters of orange peel and corn silages in different silo storage times. Experimental mini-silos, with capacity for 3.6 kg were prepared in a completely randomized design, distributed in a 2 x 6 factorial arrangement, consisting of two silages (orange peel or corn) and six opening times (10, 30, 50, 70, 90 and 110 days), with three replications. The chemical characteristics, fermentation parameters and in vitro digestibility (IVD) were determined. The dry matter (DM) average of orange peel silage (OPS) was 26.5%. Even though OPS presented higher buffering capacity than corn silage (CS), there was greater lactic acid production in OPS. Orange peel silage and corn silage presented pH after ten days of ensilage of 3.5 and 3.9, respectively. OPS presented greater IVD when compared to corn silage. It can be concluded that orange peel silage achieved a good fermentation pattern when ensiled with DM around 26%, being ready to be opened after ten days of ensilage. The orange peel silage has high IVD, becoming a good alternative for periods of food shortage.